Rob Page has signed a new four-year contract to remain manager of Wales’ Men’s Team until June 2026.
Since taking interim charge in Autumn 2020 after Ryan Giggs was suspended as manager due to legal issues, Page guided Wales to Round of 16 at Euro 2020 followed by promotion to UEFA Nations League A.
His biggest achievement though saw him guide Wales to qualification for a first FIFA World Cup since 1958, having defeated Ukraine in their Play-Off Final in June with a squad featuring a number of players he previously coached at Under-17s level including Dan James and Chris Mepham.
Giggs eventually resigned from his role in June following Wales’ qualification for the World Cup in order to avoid providing distraction, which prompted Wales to opt for continuity and appoint Page on a permanent contract.
Speaking with pride about his decision to become permanent manager of Wales, Page said: “There is no bigger honour than coaching your National Team and I can’t wait for the challenge the next four years will bring, starting with our first FIFA World Cup in 64 years.”
Page also iterated that he is keen to fill Wales with pride in a group containing England, Iran and USA as he added: “This is an exciting time for Welsh football and I hope we can make the country proud in November and continue our success by qualifying for more major tournaments in the future.”
FAW CEO, Noel Mooney added that the FA have “clear ambitions” for their Men’s National Team under Page, as he insists that the 48 year-old will be “… the best person to bring us more success over the next four years.
“By putting the correct foundations in place, I am sure that we will see Rob and the team qualify for more major tournaments in the near future and continue to grow the positivity and support around Welsh football at the moment.”
FAW Chief Football Officer, David Adams meanwhile is “delighted” to confirm Page as their new permanent manager, as he praised Page’s “ability to lead and manage this talented team of players and staff” as crucial and evident in their qualification for the World Cup.
Adams also acknowledged Page’s connection to the youth system as he added: “I am also excited at this appointment given Rob’s confidence and connection to our player pathway,” due to one of their key strategic goals being to ensure “clear and effective” pathways for progression of young players.
After this winter’s World Cup, Page will lead Wales in Qualifying campaigns for UEFA Euro 2024 and 2026 FIFA World Cup, as well as upcoming UEFA Nations League tournaments.
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